Nurturing Emergent Literacy: A Guide for Parents in Singapore

The journey towards literacy begins not when a child first attends school but in the earliest months and years of life. Understanding the significance of early literacy for babies and toddlers is pivotal, especially in Singapore, where emergent literacy is quickly gaining momentum. This article will unpack early literacy and explore how to foster early literacy at home to create a foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Understanding Early Literacy

Early literacy for babies encompasses the foundational skills that precede learning to read and write. It involves understanding and using language, recognising and producing sounds, and grasping narrative structure. 

The benefits of reading for children from an early age are plentiful, such as boosting a child's overall development and supporting academic achievement, self-esteem, and social skills. During this developmental stage, parents and caregivers play a crucial role in providing positive initial experiences and interactions that spark a child's interest in language and storytelling.

Emergent Literacy Explained

Emergent literacy refers to the process through which children acquire the skills needed for reading and writing long before they start formal education, engaging in activities like storytime, alphabet games, and interactive reading.

Emergent literacy is crucial because it lays the foundation for future academic success, fostering a love for reading and learning from an early age. It also supports cognitive development, enhances vocabulary, and builds confidence in communication skills, preparing children for the more structured learning environments they will encounter in school.

Early Literacy in Singapore: A Closer Look

In Singapore, the emphasis on early literacy is supported by comprehensive national programmes like the National Library Board's Early READ Programme and Read@School initiative.

Early READ aims to instil a love for reading in babies aged 0 to 6 through an array of library services, engaging storytelling, songs, and fun activities. Meanwhile, Read@School focuses on primary school children, promoting reading through interactive storytelling sessions, library redesign workshops, and discussions on developing reading habits. These initiatives collectively enrich Singapore's educational landscape, offering young learners a solid foundation in literacy that supports their academic and personal growth.

Practical Strategies for Supporting Early Literacy at Home

Creating a literacy-rich environment at home is simpler than it might seem. Here are some activities you can try:

• Engage in reading aloud and storytelling using age-appropriate books written for babies and young children.
• Incorporate literacy into daily routines, such as reading signs together during outings or playing with alphabet toys.
• Teach your baby to read through interactive play, sing-alongs, and picture books, making learning both fun and effective.
• Create a designated reading nook or corner that is comfortable and filled with a variety of books accessible to your child, encouraging spontaneous reading moments.
• Use labels around your home on everyday objects to introduce word-object associations, enhancing vocabulary and print awareness in a natural, engaging way.

Resources and Support for Singaporean Parents

Singaporean parents looking to bolster their baby's literacy have a plethora of resources at their disposal:

• Libraries and educational centres which provide a vast selection of books for babies.
• Parenting and baby programmes or workshops focused on early literacy offer community support and shared learning experiences.
• Librarians or educators for selecting age-appropriate books and literacy materials based on the latest emergent literacy research.
• Specialised educators who provide baby reading programmes to empower parents to enhance their child’s brain growth and development.

Fostering early literacy is an empowering process for both parent and child. With the right support and resources, all parents can lay a strong literacy foundation, ensuring their children are well-equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the future.